Imaging of peripheral vascular malformations - current concepts and future perspectives
Vanessa F Schmidt1, Max Masthoff2, Michael Czihal3
1Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.
Molecular and Cellular Pediatrics
|December 7, 2021
Summary
Vascular malformations, rare diseases affecting blood vessels, require accurate classification for treatment. Advanced imaging and molecular insights are improving diagnosis and paving the way for targeted therapies.
Area of Science:
- Vascular biology and medical imaging.
Background:
- Vascular malformations are rare diseases impacting arteries, capillaries, veins, and lymphatics.
- Accurate classification, guided by the International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA), is crucial for effective treatment.
- Heterogeneous phenotypes and underlying molecular pathogenesis are key considerations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current and emerging imaging techniques for classifying vascular malformations.
- To explore the role of molecular profiling in understanding pathogenesis and guiding targeted therapies.
- To highlight future perspectives in functional and molecular imaging for non-invasive diagnostics.
Main Methods:
- Review of established imaging modalities: color-coded Duplex ultrasound/contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CDUS/CEUS), 4D computed tomography angiography (CTA), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI/DCE-MRA), and conventional angiography.
- Discussion of molecular and genetic profiling advancements.
- Exploration of novel functional and molecular imaging approaches: thermography, positron emission tomography (PET), and multispectral optoacoustic tomography (MSOT).
Main Results:
- Established imaging techniques are vital for classifying malformations based on vessel type, extent, and flow.
- Molecular and genetic insights are advancing the understanding of malformation development.
- Pioneering studies demonstrate the potential of novel imaging methods to target specific biomarkers.
Conclusions:
- Accurate classification of vascular malformations relies on a combination of established and advanced imaging modalities.
- Molecular understanding is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
- Future non-invasive diagnostics may leverage functional and molecular imaging techniques for improved patient outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Imaging Studies VII: Vascular Imaging
93
DefinitionRenal angiography, also known as renal arteriography, is an imaging technique used to obtain a comprehensive view of blood flow and the vascular structure of blood vessels in the kidneys and surrounding areas.PurposeRenal angiography detects blood vessel abnormalities in the kidneys, such as aneurysms, stenosis, thrombosis, vascular tumors, and renal artery stenosis. It evaluates kidney function and guides interventional treatments like angioplasty or stent placement.Pre-Procedure...
93
01:21Peripheral Arterial Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Evaluation
58
Clinical manifestationsPeripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) manifests through a range of symptoms, from the characteristic intermittent claudication to atypical presentations and severe complications in advanced stages. Intermittent claudication, a hallmark symptom of PAD, presents as exercise-induced muscle pain that typically resolves within minutes of rest. This pain is reproducible and stems from inadequate blood flow, leading to the accumulation of lactic acid produced during anaerobic...
58
01:26Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
45
Varicose veins, or varicosities, develop when the valves in the veins, which control blood flow, weaken or damage. It causes blood to pool and the veins to enlarge. Understanding the clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management options for varicose veins is crucial for effective treatment and relief.Clinical manifestationsClinical manifestations of varicose veins include a heavy, achy feeling or pain after prolonged standing or sitting. This discomfort can often be relieved by...
45
01:20Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
63
The key difference between Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT) and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) lies in their location and severity.Clinical ManifestationsSVT typically presents with localized pain, tenderness, and redness along the course of a superficial vein, often accompanied by a palpable, cord-like structure under the skin. This condition is usually less dangerous than DVT but can be uncomfortable and may lead to complications such as cellulitis or, rarely, a clot extension into the deep...
63
01:27Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care
50
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is characterized by narrowed arteries that diminish blood flow to the extremities. Effective management of PAD requires an interprofessional approach involving various healthcare professionals. The critical aspects of interprofessional care for PAD patients focus on risk factor modification, drug therapy, exercise therapy, nutrition therapy, critical limb ischemia care, and interventional radiology and surgical procedures.The primary treatment goal for PAD...
50
01:28Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT
94
Cardiac computed tomography (CT) scanning is an advanced cardiac imaging technique that utilizes CT technology, with or without intravenous (IV) contrast, to produce accurate cross-sectional virtual slices of specific areas of the heart, coronary circulation, and major blood vessels such as the aorta, pulmonary veins, and arteries. The computer processes these slices to generate three-dimensional images. Multidetector CT (MDCT) is a rapid form of CT scanning that captures multiple slices...
94